Food and Drug Administration

Definition

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is a U.S. government agency responsible for regulating food, drugs, medical devices, and cosmetics to ensure public safety. It plays a crucial role in approving new medications and overseeing food safety standards.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The FDA sets regulations for the nutritional labeling of foods.
2. It ensures that all marketed drugs are safe and effective for their intended use.
3. The FDA monitors adverse reactions to medications through its MedWatch program.
4. Food manufacturers must comply with FDA guidelines to prevent contamination and ensure proper labeling.
5. Dietary supplements are also regulated by the FDA but under different standards than conventional foods and drugs.

Review Questions

• What role does the FDA play in ensuring food safety?
• How does the FDA contribute to drug approval processes?
• What is one way the FDA monitors medication safety after they have been approved?

Related terms

USDA: The U.S. Department of Agriculture oversees farming, forestry, rural economic development, and food quality standards.

Nutritional Labeling: This refers to information provided on food packaging about its nutrient content as required by regulatory agencies like the FDA.

MedWatch: An FDA program that collects information about adverse effects of medications from consumers and healthcare professionals.